Richa Chadda - Akshay Oberoi starrer in British Producer Michael Ward, 'Bombairiya'
Rumours have been doing the rounds about Richa Chadda being a part of a British film. Now it is being said that Akshay Oberoi has been paired opposite Richa in the same British film being directed by a singer/songwriter.
Richa and Akshay, in fact have been cast in leading roles in a film called Bombairiya which will be shot in interesting locations around Mumbai and is slated to go on floors in December. Bombairiya is a solely Bollywood masala film which is directed by debutante director Pia Sukanya. Contrary to rumors, the film is an out and out Bollywood project and is an ode to Mumbai, a city much loved by the makers of the film.
Says India born British Producer Michael Ward, 'Bombairiya is an affectionate satire on the city of Bombay. Both Pia and I are essentially Indian at heart and Bombay is an integral part of our being. Pia's story is inspired by a real life incident that took place in Mumbai and this gave her the opportunity to weave in various other facets of this remarkable city. Smiling at the earlier rumours, Michael adds "Richa plays a film industry PR girl, Meghna, who is prone to putting out fake news and Akshay plays a middle class IT programmer working from home and who is awkward with girls. It's true that the development financing of the film is British but Richa and Akshay are both on the rise in commercial Hindi cinema and that is why we cast them. We also have other supremely talented actors in leading roles in Bombairiya and we shall reveal who they are shortly.”
The film is said to be a caper comedy with edges of thrill, satire and romance and from what we hear the casting is said to be new age, quirky, eclectic, ensemble and relevant.
Says Akshay, "Bombairiya is a fast-paced comic caper. I was immediately on board, after reading the script. It's the kind of writing that really excites me as an actor. I am really glad that a film like this is being made, and all the more, that I am a part of it."
Richa quipped, “ I am thrilled to collaborate creatively with Michael and Pia, and they have an exceptional script. I am quite choosy about my work and I think this is one of the best scripts I have read in recent times. Also, I am excited to work with the actors associated with the film. It has a great story with immense universal appeal."
Richa and Akshay, in fact have been cast in leading roles in a film called Bombairiya which will be shot in interesting locations around Mumbai and is slated to go on floors in December. Bombairiya is a solely Bollywood masala film which is directed by debutante director Pia Sukanya. Contrary to rumors, the film is an out and out Bollywood project and is an ode to Mumbai, a city much loved by the makers of the film.
Says India born British Producer Michael Ward, 'Bombairiya is an affectionate satire on the city of Bombay. Both Pia and I are essentially Indian at heart and Bombay is an integral part of our being. Pia's story is inspired by a real life incident that took place in Mumbai and this gave her the opportunity to weave in various other facets of this remarkable city. Smiling at the earlier rumours, Michael adds "Richa plays a film industry PR girl, Meghna, who is prone to putting out fake news and Akshay plays a middle class IT programmer working from home and who is awkward with girls. It's true that the development financing of the film is British but Richa and Akshay are both on the rise in commercial Hindi cinema and that is why we cast them. We also have other supremely talented actors in leading roles in Bombairiya and we shall reveal who they are shortly.”
The film is said to be a caper comedy with edges of thrill, satire and romance and from what we hear the casting is said to be new age, quirky, eclectic, ensemble and relevant.
Says Akshay, "Bombairiya is a fast-paced comic caper. I was immediately on board, after reading the script. It's the kind of writing that really excites me as an actor. I am really glad that a film like this is being made, and all the more, that I am a part of it."
Richa quipped, “ I am thrilled to collaborate creatively with Michael and Pia, and they have an exceptional script. I am quite choosy about my work and I think this is one of the best scripts I have read in recent times. Also, I am excited to work with the actors associated with the film. It has a great story with immense universal appeal."
BOLLYWOOD: A JOURNEY FROM MAKES TO REMAKES
As the country celebrated glorious 100 years of Indian films, “Bollywood” has finally made its popular entry into the Indian film industry. The term, Bollywood, often coined with terms like Bombay Cinema, Indian popular cinema and Hindi cinema. Perhaps, it may be a blend of Bombay and Hollywood. This homegrown Hindi entertainment becomes a cultural logic and a global market of Indian modernity.
Bollywood around You
With immense innovation and technology which has been put into new films, Bollywood has reached over to many viewers across the world. Today Bollywood movies have much higher budgets, better technology and improved language skills. Apart from the looks, the actors don't only need a commanding voice, but also singing skills as a music became a defining element in Indian cinema. Bollywood function as something more than popular Indian cinema produced in Mumbai.
Back in the 1950s and 1960s, the timeless hits like Kala Bazaar, Kohinoor, Aradhana, Teesri Manzil to a name of few were self evidently realistic and have reasonably specific narrative and a flow of representation. Generally, Bollywood has emerged with comprehensive individual films, technological developments, eminent directors and authors, studios and performers as evidence of Indian cinema’s history. Bollywood films are usually musical and all mixed up with long extravaganza action, drama, romance and masala.
Why “Remakes” in Bollywood?
Bollywood’s growing popularity in abroad has extended the expectations of the audience. When Bollywood film makers copy and imitate Hollywood/Kollywood movies, styles and cultures, they are effectively conceding creative inferiority. Many claims that movies are not about creativity, originality or vision, its only aim is to entertain the viewers. Remake described as a considerable amount of overlap in terms of characterization, narrative and dialogues and even to emotional and generic tones.
Gradually, with increasing gloss and glamour, the filmmakers don’t bring new ideas as they are too risky to adopt. They even believe that this is India and there is freedom to choose any ideas as a basic subject matter and develop it in an own manner. By defining this concept, many geniuses merges the plotline of the movie with its protected expression or sometimes change the climax, part of the scene, dialogues and character portrayal to make it different from the original. The filmmakers may have misconception that viewers aren’t regular audience of Hollywood/Kollywood and this creates an opportunity to imitate some or the other movies without being criticized instead they are appreciated for their efforts and make good money at the box office. Until if you feel cheated, this doesn’t matter to an audience as long as they are entertained by it.
Some filmmakers and producers are very candid in admitting that some of their works are remakes or an adaptation of Hollywood movies and novels or some other forms of foreign entertainment. This might help the viewers to understand and speak about it openly as we know that there is some general pressure to increase revenue and role globalization plays in this kind of Bollywood’s plagiarism.
Other Similar Terms
Similar with Remakes, there are other terms like Adaptation, Sequel, Prequel, Film Series have coined with Bollywood from years. They have even contracted the innovation and ideology. The filmmakers don’t want to go beyond these terminologies. And this logical discourse has dismissed popular Hindi cinema asmere entertainment or time passes for a modern audience. Scholars like Satyajit Ray, V. Shantaram, Raj Kapoor to name a few garnered popularity only because of their ability to create an indigenous creative cult. They developed the ability to localize film to its regional, cultural and vernacular audiences.
Bollywood adapted many plots from renowned novels and plays such as Othello a play by Shakespeare was adapted as Omkara () by the director Vishal Bhardwaj, Similarly, Maqbool (Macbeth), bride and Prejudice (Pride and prejudice) and recently Haider (Hamlet). After all, these types of films provide possibility to film makers for seeking Co production income and attract the business without loss. “Remakes” even thought that they would get away if it's made from old classics, so people may not really notice.
Films like Dil hai ki manta nahin (1991) taken from It Happened One Night (1934), Sarkar (2005) from Godfather (1972), Zinda (Old Boy - 2003). The most famous Romcom Chachi 420 was remade from Mrs. Doubtfire (1998), yeh dillagi (1994) from American romantic comedy Sabrina (1954). The fact remains that filmmakers won’t stop unless the people demand originality in the movies and boycott imitation. A ray of hope remains in the form of some original movies, people who actually sit down to make something novel and fresh such as Jolie LLB, Zindagina milegi dobara, Queen and Shahid (though it is inspired from a real life story) to name a few. Remember that it’s just the idea that binds all these together, which is entirely outsourced from the original, but failed to make an impression in the viewer’s mind.
Conclusion
We all know that there is more or less imitation in Bollywood alias Indian film Industry. Even after being popular and given industry status, Bollywood can’t help to disguise himself with ideas, scenes or plots which had remade. But with the world deepens into the rights and debates, buying “sobriquet” to helm an official remake is the brand new trend. Nowadays, only those film works which are clear, intelligible, have high budgets and attracts a mass audience.
There may be hundreds of genuine writers waiting for a medium to express something of their own, but then, sluggish vision and misconception prevails. Imitation only leads to mockery, if it is not carefully prompted or publicized. Indian viewers, probably, don’t demand originality if they, then makers should oblige, but the audience only believes in entertainment. If they feel cheated then they can boycott that particular film. A skilled and creative filmmaker can do magic while changing the visual, style, experimental and inventive story to impress the viewers and critics. Just keep the soul in the film while making it.
Bollywood around You
With immense innovation and technology which has been put into new films, Bollywood has reached over to many viewers across the world. Today Bollywood movies have much higher budgets, better technology and improved language skills. Apart from the looks, the actors don't only need a commanding voice, but also singing skills as a music became a defining element in Indian cinema. Bollywood function as something more than popular Indian cinema produced in Mumbai.
Back in the 1950s and 1960s, the timeless hits like Kala Bazaar, Kohinoor, Aradhana, Teesri Manzil to a name of few were self evidently realistic and have reasonably specific narrative and a flow of representation. Generally, Bollywood has emerged with comprehensive individual films, technological developments, eminent directors and authors, studios and performers as evidence of Indian cinema’s history. Bollywood films are usually musical and all mixed up with long extravaganza action, drama, romance and masala.
Why “Remakes” in Bollywood?
Bollywood’s growing popularity in abroad has extended the expectations of the audience. When Bollywood film makers copy and imitate Hollywood/Kollywood movies, styles and cultures, they are effectively conceding creative inferiority. Many claims that movies are not about creativity, originality or vision, its only aim is to entertain the viewers. Remake described as a considerable amount of overlap in terms of characterization, narrative and dialogues and even to emotional and generic tones.
Gradually, with increasing gloss and glamour, the filmmakers don’t bring new ideas as they are too risky to adopt. They even believe that this is India and there is freedom to choose any ideas as a basic subject matter and develop it in an own manner. By defining this concept, many geniuses merges the plotline of the movie with its protected expression or sometimes change the climax, part of the scene, dialogues and character portrayal to make it different from the original. The filmmakers may have misconception that viewers aren’t regular audience of Hollywood/Kollywood and this creates an opportunity to imitate some or the other movies without being criticized instead they are appreciated for their efforts and make good money at the box office. Until if you feel cheated, this doesn’t matter to an audience as long as they are entertained by it.
Some filmmakers and producers are very candid in admitting that some of their works are remakes or an adaptation of Hollywood movies and novels or some other forms of foreign entertainment. This might help the viewers to understand and speak about it openly as we know that there is some general pressure to increase revenue and role globalization plays in this kind of Bollywood’s plagiarism.
Other Similar Terms
Similar with Remakes, there are other terms like Adaptation, Sequel, Prequel, Film Series have coined with Bollywood from years. They have even contracted the innovation and ideology. The filmmakers don’t want to go beyond these terminologies. And this logical discourse has dismissed popular Hindi cinema asmere entertainment or time passes for a modern audience. Scholars like Satyajit Ray, V. Shantaram, Raj Kapoor to name a few garnered popularity only because of their ability to create an indigenous creative cult. They developed the ability to localize film to its regional, cultural and vernacular audiences.
Bollywood adapted many plots from renowned novels and plays such as Othello a play by Shakespeare was adapted as Omkara () by the director Vishal Bhardwaj, Similarly, Maqbool (Macbeth), bride and Prejudice (Pride and prejudice) and recently Haider (Hamlet). After all, these types of films provide possibility to film makers for seeking Co production income and attract the business without loss. “Remakes” even thought that they would get away if it's made from old classics, so people may not really notice.
Films like Dil hai ki manta nahin (1991) taken from It Happened One Night (1934), Sarkar (2005) from Godfather (1972), Zinda (Old Boy - 2003). The most famous Romcom Chachi 420 was remade from Mrs. Doubtfire (1998), yeh dillagi (1994) from American romantic comedy Sabrina (1954). The fact remains that filmmakers won’t stop unless the people demand originality in the movies and boycott imitation. A ray of hope remains in the form of some original movies, people who actually sit down to make something novel and fresh such as Jolie LLB, Zindagina milegi dobara, Queen and Shahid (though it is inspired from a real life story) to name a few. Remember that it’s just the idea that binds all these together, which is entirely outsourced from the original, but failed to make an impression in the viewer’s mind.
Conclusion
We all know that there is more or less imitation in Bollywood alias Indian film Industry. Even after being popular and given industry status, Bollywood can’t help to disguise himself with ideas, scenes or plots which had remade. But with the world deepens into the rights and debates, buying “sobriquet” to helm an official remake is the brand new trend. Nowadays, only those film works which are clear, intelligible, have high budgets and attracts a mass audience.
There may be hundreds of genuine writers waiting for a medium to express something of their own, but then, sluggish vision and misconception prevails. Imitation only leads to mockery, if it is not carefully prompted or publicized. Indian viewers, probably, don’t demand originality if they, then makers should oblige, but the audience only believes in entertainment. If they feel cheated then they can boycott that particular film. A skilled and creative filmmaker can do magic while changing the visual, style, experimental and inventive story to impress the viewers and critics. Just keep the soul in the film while making it.
Rishi Kapoor celebrates his birthday with a tribute to Pancham da at 92.7 BIG FM
Rishi Kapoor who celebrated his birthday with RJ Anirudh from 92.7 BIG FM also paid his tribute to music maestro Pancham Da who sadly passed away on the same date as his birthdate 20 years ago. The actor who has given a number of hits on PanchamDa’s songs in his movies reminisced the days when they would sit down together to work and sometimes even for a chat. He also spoke of how PanchamDa’s music influenced his life’s many moments.
Speaking on the occasion, a delighted Rishi Kapoor said, “I’m very pleased to be here today and pay my respect for what Pancham Da has given this industry. But I sincerely wish it would be someone who has worked with him some more than I have like Rajesh Khanna whom unfortunately we’ve recently lost. But there are still some more remarkable actors like Amitji and Jeetuji who deserve to pay tributes to Pancham Da more than I do. But I can’t express my happiness to be here today and I’m glad that 92.7 BIG FM has given me this opportunity.”
On being told by RJ Anirudh that Rishi in fact is one actor whose songs with R.D Burman are some of the most popular ones like Yeh Vaada Raha, Hum Ne Tum ko Dekha, Bachna Ae Haseeno, etc, an excited Rishi further added, “Oh yes, Bachna Ae Haseeno is indeed extremely special and close to my heart and the funny thing is that when we shot the song and the movie came out, it was such a rage but no one even in their dreams could have ever imagined that that very song would later be picturized on my son, Ranbir. He not only starred in a movie with that name but also danced to the tunes of that song which I had myself done so many years ago.”
Speaking on the occasion, a delighted Rishi Kapoor said, “I’m very pleased to be here today and pay my respect for what Pancham Da has given this industry. But I sincerely wish it would be someone who has worked with him some more than I have like Rajesh Khanna whom unfortunately we’ve recently lost. But there are still some more remarkable actors like Amitji and Jeetuji who deserve to pay tributes to Pancham Da more than I do. But I can’t express my happiness to be here today and I’m glad that 92.7 BIG FM has given me this opportunity.”
On being told by RJ Anirudh that Rishi in fact is one actor whose songs with R.D Burman are some of the most popular ones like Yeh Vaada Raha, Hum Ne Tum ko Dekha, Bachna Ae Haseeno, etc, an excited Rishi further added, “Oh yes, Bachna Ae Haseeno is indeed extremely special and close to my heart and the funny thing is that when we shot the song and the movie came out, it was such a rage but no one even in their dreams could have ever imagined that that very song would later be picturized on my son, Ranbir. He not only starred in a movie with that name but also danced to the tunes of that song which I had myself done so many years ago.”
A night dedicated to the musical memories of Indeevar
A musical tribute to Sh.Indeevar and 2nd Great Geetkar Indeevar Award to Sh.Santosh Anand
It’s time to revamp and reload some good old hindi songs. On the 30th August 2014, the era of yesteryears was relived when Savitri Vikas Samiti, a registered NGO, organized a grand musical tribute to Sh.Indeevar at Arya Auditorium near Iskcon Temple. The NGO also instituted an award on Indeevar’s name as a tribute to him. The 2nd Geetkar Indeevar Award was presented to Sh.Santosh Anand Ji.
The evening witnessed some soothing and soulful songs penned by Sh.Indeevar. The event was inaugurated by S.M. Khan (DG, News). The Guest of Honor had some big names like Sh.Sharad Dutt-Film Critic, Dr.H.P. Kumar – CMD, NSIC, Sh.Sandeep Marwah- Chairman AAFT, Sh.Raj Chopra- B.R. Films & Sh.B.L.Gaur-Chairman, Gaursons. Do-Re-Mi, one of the renowned bands of Delhi, paid tribute to the legend lyricist by playing his hit songs. The musical night saw many performances that brought back the essence of yesteryears. A trained Shiamak Davar student shook a leg on old Indeevar song, which was praised by all present. On this occasion, Dr,Anita Srivastava, the name behind Savitri Vikas Samiti, shares “ I feel today’s generation is getting hooked to new era of songs some of which can’t be enjoy with the family. Youth is our future and there is a big bundle of talent out there in the society. To make these talents aware of our roots, our NGO - Savitri Vikas Samiti, aims to connect today’s generation with the old one to show them how meaningful those songs were and teach the essence of good lyrics” To keep alive the work of lyricist Indeevar, Savitri Vikas Samiti, came up with a musical concert as a Tribute to this legend. This musical event, started in the year 2013, also instituted an award on Indeevar’s name. This award is given to recognize and honor the work of lyricists from the industry. The first Geetkar Indeevar Award (2013) was given to Padma Bhushan Dr.Gopal Das Neeraj in a grand musical night held in Jhansi. The 2nd Geetkar Indeevar Award and the musical carnival ended with a vote of thanks by Dr.Anita Srivastava. About Geetkar Indeevar: Shyamalal Babu Rai, professionally known as Indeevar was born in Dhamna Village of Jhansi district (Uttar Pradesh) and grew up in Barua Sagar in Jhansi District, Uttar Pradesh. To pursue his dream and professional career as a lyricist, he moved to Bombay. He got his first assignment for the movie called ‘Double Face’ (1946) but he got recognition from the movie Malhar (1949) where he penned “Bade Armano Se Rakkha Hai Balam Teri Kasam: which was composed by the Roshan Sahab. He finally entered the big league with Babubhai Mistry’s musical extravaganza – Parasmani which was released in the year 1963. This movie was also a launch pad for the music duo Laxmikant-Pyarelal, but having said that this learned lyricist’s success began only after his association with Kalyanji-Anandji around early 60s. And from then there was no looking back. Indeevar also wrote songs for famous pop duo Nazia Hassan and Zohaib Hassan. Nazia Hassan’s famous songs "Aap Jaisa Koi", "Boom Boom", "Meherbani", "Dil ki Lagi" & Zohaib Hassan’s "Star" was written by Indeevar.other hits number penned by him are “Yeh Mera Dil” -Don, “Laila O Laila” - Qurbani, “Har kisi ko nahi milta yahan pyar zindagi mein”, “Ghunghtein mein chanda hai” - Koyla, “Na kajre ki dhar” - Mohra and so on. In his career of four decades he wrote more than thousands songs for over 300 films and worked with composers like Roshan in the 40s to Viju Shah, Aadesh Shrivastava, Anand Raaj Anand and Jatin Lalit in the 90s. He is the recipient of Filmfare Award for his song Dil aisa kisi ne mera loota in 1976. About Savitri Vikas Samiti Savitri Vikas Samiti is a registered Non Profitable Organization working determinately from past 9 years in the field of Music, Literature and Art with our motto of Universal Love, Peace & National Integration through Sangeet, Sahitya & Adhyatam. The Samiti has 6 different award ceremonies to honor the legends from different field such as Literature, art, Music, film industry etc. and to motivate new comers. Each award ceremony was organized with a musical event or kavi sammelans in Delhi, Lucknow and Jhansi. |
About Dr.Anita Srivastava
Dr.Anita Srivastava is the President of Savitri Vikas Samiti. She completed her PhD in Hindi from Allahabad University in the year 2001. She’s a writer, poetess and her writings have been published in many eminent magazines & Newspapers. “kuch Kahi Kuch Ankahi”, “Prem Ke Do Ras”& “Matritva Se Judi Kuch Khaas Baatein” are few of her published books. |
Rani Mukerji and Cast & Crew of ‘MARDAANI’ Champion the Cause of Support My School Campaign
· Sumanta Datta, Vice President, Company Bottling Operations, Coca-Cola India, along with Rani Mukerji, present Mardaani ‘Medal of Bravery’ to brave girls of Priyadarshini Vidya Mandir School
· The Priyadarshini Vidya Mandir School, Mumbai has been revitalized under Coca-Cola’s Support My School Campaign, that has facilitated improved access to safe drinking water, separate toilets for boys and girls and promotion of physical sports and recreation
· The Support My School campaign has revitalized 360 schools across India
Rani Mukerji, lead actor of the upcoming and highly anticipated Yash Raj Films release, ‘Mardaani’, visited Priyadarshini Vidya Mandir School today, and lent her support to Coca-Cola’s Support My School Campaign. Together with Mr. Sumanta Datta, Vice President, Company Bottling Operations, Coca-Cola India, Rani Mukerji presented a Mardaani “Medal of Bravery” to 5 girls of the school who have shown courage and achieved success by overcoming odds.
The visit was part of the Support My School campaign which focuses on revitalizing schools in rural and semi-urban areas with provision of basic facilities such as safe drinking water, separate toilets for boys and girls, libraries and promotion of physical sports. Lack of amenities such as hygienic sanitation has been a major cause for dropouts amongst female students at the incidence of puberty.
Rani Mukerji said, “The movie Mardaani addresses the issue of human trafficking through the story of a bold and daring woman cop. It showcases a brave woman who overcomes obstacles and fights for justice. The film encourages women to stand up for themselves and for their rights and also inspires every child to evoke the spirit of Mardaani in them. Education is a way to empower women, to teach them to value themselves and thereby gain the respect of others around them. I want to congratulate Coca-Cola India and all the other partners who have championed Support My School to encourage these girls to overcome odds and stay in school. It is a great initiative.”
Talking about the campaign Mr. Sumanta Datta, Vice President, Company Bottling Operations, Coca-Cola India said “Support My School recently completed 361 schools in India and this is a true landmark for us. The campaign has achieved recognition pan India and we take pride in launching the third season very soon. The campaign has always held a special focus for the girl child and it gives us great pleasure to associate with the cast of ‘Mardaani’ towards our common cause of empowering women. I congratulate each girl who has today received the ‘Mardaani’- Medal of Bravery and I hope more women across India are brave enough to fight for their rights and for their education.”
Aditya Bhat, Founder & Creative Thinker, Business of Ideas said, “It gives us great pleasure to contribute towards such a noble cause. It is important to encourage female children at an early age to be brave and strong and empower herself with a good education. We are glad to be able to partner with Coca-Cola and other partners for the Support My School initiative.”
Thanking the campaign partners and the entire cast of Mardaani, Mr. Laadh, Principal of the Priyadarshini Vidya Mandir School said, “It has been an honor to be selected under the Support My School campaign which has given a new lease of life to our school. The initiative has changed everything about our school. I would like to thank all the partners on initiating this effort and making a difference to the lives of all our students.”
About Support My School Campaign
Coca-Cola India joined hands with NDTV to launch Support My School in association with UN-Habitat, Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), Pearson Foundation and Tata Teleservices. It undertakes the following core activities:
· Provision of improved access to water
· Appropriate sanitation facility for girls and boys
· Improvement in the overall infrastructure and environment
· Provision for sports and recreation facilities and
· Recharging groundwater through rainwater harvesting
With such necessary amenities in place, schools are able to provide a cleaner and healthier environment more conducive to learning.
Education in rural India suffers from several issues where lack of sanitation is a key reason for absenteeism and dropouts amongst students. This is especially noted in young girls who are forced to quit as they enter adolescence due to a lack of clean and functional toilets. Children are also likely to fall sick more often without clean water to drink or to wash hands. Support My School endeavors to eliminate this basic concern by spreading the initiative across the country with the help of campaign partners to execute the same.
About Coca-Cola India
Coca-Cola India is one of the country’s leading beverage companies, offering a range of healthy, safe, high quality, refreshing beverage options to consumers. Over the last 20 years, ever since its re-entry in 1993, the company has been refreshing consumers with its beverage products - Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Maaza, Minute Maid range of juices, Georgia and Georgia gold range of hot and cold tea and coffee options, Kinley and Bonaqua packaged drinking water, Kinley Club Soda and BURN. The Company along with its bottling partners, through a strong network of over 2.2 million retail outlets, touches the lives of millions of consumers, at a rate of more than 500 servings per second. Its brands are some of the most preferred and most sold beverages in the country – Thums Up and Sprite – being the top two selling sparkling beverages.
The Coca-Cola system in India has registered 32 consecutive quarters of growth, 19 of them being double digit. It believes in the long term growth potential of the country and this system is committed to invest US$ 5 billion in its operations between 2012 and 2020. The system already provides direct employment to 25,000 people and indirect employment to 150,000 people.
The Coca-Cola system in India is contributing in its own small way to building sustainable communities and reducing its own environmental footprint. Some of our community development programs include the “Support My School” program – a movement for healthy, active, happy schools, the ‘Parivartan’ and ‘Pragati’ retailer training program, Career Development centers to train youth and make them employable, women empowerment program as a part of the global 5BY20 campaign, Unnati – a sustainable mango farming project etc.
For further information on the company's India operations and its products, please visit: www.coca-colaindia.com.
The visit was part of the Support My School campaign which focuses on revitalizing schools in rural and semi-urban areas with provision of basic facilities such as safe drinking water, separate toilets for boys and girls, libraries and promotion of physical sports. Lack of amenities such as hygienic sanitation has been a major cause for dropouts amongst female students at the incidence of puberty.
Rani Mukerji said, “The movie Mardaani addresses the issue of human trafficking through the story of a bold and daring woman cop. It showcases a brave woman who overcomes obstacles and fights for justice. The film encourages women to stand up for themselves and for their rights and also inspires every child to evoke the spirit of Mardaani in them. Education is a way to empower women, to teach them to value themselves and thereby gain the respect of others around them. I want to congratulate Coca-Cola India and all the other partners who have championed Support My School to encourage these girls to overcome odds and stay in school. It is a great initiative.”
Talking about the campaign Mr. Sumanta Datta, Vice President, Company Bottling Operations, Coca-Cola India said “Support My School recently completed 361 schools in India and this is a true landmark for us. The campaign has achieved recognition pan India and we take pride in launching the third season very soon. The campaign has always held a special focus for the girl child and it gives us great pleasure to associate with the cast of ‘Mardaani’ towards our common cause of empowering women. I congratulate each girl who has today received the ‘Mardaani’- Medal of Bravery and I hope more women across India are brave enough to fight for their rights and for their education.”
Aditya Bhat, Founder & Creative Thinker, Business of Ideas said, “It gives us great pleasure to contribute towards such a noble cause. It is important to encourage female children at an early age to be brave and strong and empower herself with a good education. We are glad to be able to partner with Coca-Cola and other partners for the Support My School initiative.”
Thanking the campaign partners and the entire cast of Mardaani, Mr. Laadh, Principal of the Priyadarshini Vidya Mandir School said, “It has been an honor to be selected under the Support My School campaign which has given a new lease of life to our school. The initiative has changed everything about our school. I would like to thank all the partners on initiating this effort and making a difference to the lives of all our students.”
About Support My School Campaign
Coca-Cola India joined hands with NDTV to launch Support My School in association with UN-Habitat, Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), Pearson Foundation and Tata Teleservices. It undertakes the following core activities:
· Provision of improved access to water
· Appropriate sanitation facility for girls and boys
· Improvement in the overall infrastructure and environment
· Provision for sports and recreation facilities and
· Recharging groundwater through rainwater harvesting
With such necessary amenities in place, schools are able to provide a cleaner and healthier environment more conducive to learning.
Education in rural India suffers from several issues where lack of sanitation is a key reason for absenteeism and dropouts amongst students. This is especially noted in young girls who are forced to quit as they enter adolescence due to a lack of clean and functional toilets. Children are also likely to fall sick more often without clean water to drink or to wash hands. Support My School endeavors to eliminate this basic concern by spreading the initiative across the country with the help of campaign partners to execute the same.
About Coca-Cola India
Coca-Cola India is one of the country’s leading beverage companies, offering a range of healthy, safe, high quality, refreshing beverage options to consumers. Over the last 20 years, ever since its re-entry in 1993, the company has been refreshing consumers with its beverage products - Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Maaza, Minute Maid range of juices, Georgia and Georgia gold range of hot and cold tea and coffee options, Kinley and Bonaqua packaged drinking water, Kinley Club Soda and BURN. The Company along with its bottling partners, through a strong network of over 2.2 million retail outlets, touches the lives of millions of consumers, at a rate of more than 500 servings per second. Its brands are some of the most preferred and most sold beverages in the country – Thums Up and Sprite – being the top two selling sparkling beverages.
The Coca-Cola system in India has registered 32 consecutive quarters of growth, 19 of them being double digit. It believes in the long term growth potential of the country and this system is committed to invest US$ 5 billion in its operations between 2012 and 2020. The system already provides direct employment to 25,000 people and indirect employment to 150,000 people.
The Coca-Cola system in India is contributing in its own small way to building sustainable communities and reducing its own environmental footprint. Some of our community development programs include the “Support My School” program – a movement for healthy, active, happy schools, the ‘Parivartan’ and ‘Pragati’ retailer training program, Career Development centers to train youth and make them employable, women empowerment program as a part of the global 5BY20 campaign, Unnati – a sustainable mango farming project etc.
For further information on the company's India operations and its products, please visit: www.coca-colaindia.com.
61st National Film Award “Rising Youngsters”
Mahesh Limaye won the special award for ‘YELLOW’ along with ‘MISS LOVELY’ directed by Ashim Ahluwalia. Likewise Rajkumar Rao the another gang of FTII alumni Pranjal Dua, Gautam Nair,
Kavin Jagtiani, Ruchir Arun, got the awards in their respective fields. The film like ‘JOLLY LLB’
which is based on the slow judiciary that our country has slowly accepted got the BEST FILM (hindi)
The actor Saurabh Shukla won’s the SUPPORTING ACTOR, hopefully the award instills respect for actor like him and the industry would take them seriously from here on. The Jury's choice for Best Popular Film providing wholesome entertainment. Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag'
Kavin Jagtiani, Ruchir Arun, got the awards in their respective fields. The film like ‘JOLLY LLB’
which is based on the slow judiciary that our country has slowly accepted got the BEST FILM (hindi)
The actor Saurabh Shukla won’s the SUPPORTING ACTOR, hopefully the award instills respect for actor like him and the industry would take them seriously from here on. The Jury's choice for Best Popular Film providing wholesome entertainment. Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag'
Though a film like 'The Lunchbox' was blatantly ignored, it was heartening to see deserving films like 'Ship Of Theseus', 'Jolly LLB', 'Shahid', Marathi film 'Fandry', Bengali film'Jatishwar' get its due credit. As we are talking about the youth in film industry Sohum Shah, Aida Elkashef, Anand Gandhi, Geetanjali Thapa all these are the new faces of industry which are not known by many people but the talent doesn’t stop here. They proved themselves with there work.
Now we can say that the new era of Film making is begin.The youngsters of our country are serious
for bringing change in our society not by becoming Doctor, Engineers or Politicians but by making films. The medium which is known for Entertainment only is now becoming the medium of knowledge, medium of new hope which surely brings happiness in each and everyone’s life. By the films like “ GULAB GANG” a women oriented film, “YELLOW” a film on international swimmer,who is suffering from Down Syndrome since birth. Way to go Youngistaan…… Hope we will get more new Talents and more good films.
Now we can say that the new era of Film making is begin.The youngsters of our country are serious
for bringing change in our society not by becoming Doctor, Engineers or Politicians but by making films. The medium which is known for Entertainment only is now becoming the medium of knowledge, medium of new hope which surely brings happiness in each and everyone’s life. By the films like “ GULAB GANG” a women oriented film, “YELLOW” a film on international swimmer,who is suffering from Down Syndrome since birth. Way to go Youngistaan…… Hope we will get more new Talents and more good films.
'The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel' rolling, to hit the cinemas with Longinus Fernandes as choreographer by the year end
The production on a sequel to the British feelgood hit from 2012, ‘The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’ is officially under way in India, with Fox Searchlight once more backing the enterprise, and the first film's Oscar-nominated director John Madden (‘Shakespeare in Love’) back behind the film as its Director and Graham Broadbent as Producer.
Most of the original ensemble is also back on board, including Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Bill Nighy, Dev Patel, Tena Desae, Celia Imrie, Ronald Pickup and Penelope Wilton. There are, however, three high-profile new recruits: Richard Gere, Oscar nominee David Strathairn and the dependably excellent Tamsin Greig.
“It was indeed an honor working with an ensemble cast like these profound personalities,” says Longinus Fernandes, who is the choreographer of the movie. “I was excited working with Dev since ‘Slumdog Millionaire.’ Dev has matured as an overall performer for sure and a dancer as well,” observes Longi (as he is affectionately called).
Where the first film was based on a popular novel by Deborah Moggach, ‘The Best Exotic Marigold 2’ - as it’s currently titled - is based on an original story by Madden and returning screenwriter Ol Parker.
The new film finds the original gang still in residence at the eponymous Indian hotel run by a soon-to-be-married Sonny (Dev Patel), with Smith's crotchety Muriel newly installed as co-manager. More romantic complications ensue amid the group, with Gere and Greig playing newly arrived guests vying for a single vacancy. Gere's character is called Guy, so one good creative decision has already been made.
“It is a rare kind of experience working with John Madden, who is a through gentleman who is keen to know everything in detail,” says Longi. “Interactions with Gere, who is down to earth is another never forgettable experience,” he adds.
So what we can expect from Longi in ‘The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’? “Oh! There will be lots of out and out Bollywood masala… marriage, celebrations and much more… Oops! I can’t tell you everything in detail,” laughs an excited Longi.
‘The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’ received a smattering of recognition in the 2012 awards season, including BAFTA, SAG and Golden Globe nods. But it was principally a people's favorite: a smash in the UK, it also grossed over $46 million Stateside - proved the profitable rewards of targeting under-served older audiences. So it makes sense that a sequel is on the way. “I ‘m looking forward to this wonderful film making it to the cinema halls by the year end,” concludes Longi. Well, wait till the year end to see it on the screen.
Most of the original ensemble is also back on board, including Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Bill Nighy, Dev Patel, Tena Desae, Celia Imrie, Ronald Pickup and Penelope Wilton. There are, however, three high-profile new recruits: Richard Gere, Oscar nominee David Strathairn and the dependably excellent Tamsin Greig.
“It was indeed an honor working with an ensemble cast like these profound personalities,” says Longinus Fernandes, who is the choreographer of the movie. “I was excited working with Dev since ‘Slumdog Millionaire.’ Dev has matured as an overall performer for sure and a dancer as well,” observes Longi (as he is affectionately called).
Where the first film was based on a popular novel by Deborah Moggach, ‘The Best Exotic Marigold 2’ - as it’s currently titled - is based on an original story by Madden and returning screenwriter Ol Parker.
The new film finds the original gang still in residence at the eponymous Indian hotel run by a soon-to-be-married Sonny (Dev Patel), with Smith's crotchety Muriel newly installed as co-manager. More romantic complications ensue amid the group, with Gere and Greig playing newly arrived guests vying for a single vacancy. Gere's character is called Guy, so one good creative decision has already been made.
“It is a rare kind of experience working with John Madden, who is a through gentleman who is keen to know everything in detail,” says Longi. “Interactions with Gere, who is down to earth is another never forgettable experience,” he adds.
So what we can expect from Longi in ‘The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’? “Oh! There will be lots of out and out Bollywood masala… marriage, celebrations and much more… Oops! I can’t tell you everything in detail,” laughs an excited Longi.
‘The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’ received a smattering of recognition in the 2012 awards season, including BAFTA, SAG and Golden Globe nods. But it was principally a people's favorite: a smash in the UK, it also grossed over $46 million Stateside - proved the profitable rewards of targeting under-served older audiences. So it makes sense that a sequel is on the way. “I ‘m looking forward to this wonderful film making it to the cinema halls by the year end,” concludes Longi. Well, wait till the year end to see it on the screen.